There are a lot of really amazing tools I have owned in my lifetime, and there is no doubt that technology has allowed us to take tools and make them better than ever before. The precision we never thought possible on a small scale is available in the form of CNC’s, 3-D printers, and the tool I am talking about today, the 3-D Laser Cutter. I’ve had the Glowforge for a month now, and I am pumped to share my initial thoughts on this unique and awesome tool in Glowforge Review- One Month.
About The Tool
Glowforge Review- One Month
So what exactly is a 3D Laser Printer? Well imagine a 3D printer, and a laser cutter had a baby. That is pretty much the best explanation possible. The Glowforge has some incredible capabilities to make 3D engravings and objects with the most insane precision. As well, the reality is while it seems a bit intimidating, I mean it is a laser, it is one of the easiest tools I have ever operated.
Using your computer, you create your designs, or use some of their premade designs and upload them into the web-based site. From here you choose your materials and desired process whether cutting, engraving, etc. I have used a software program I had from a vinyl cutter, because it can create SVG’s but most users find Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape to be the way to go. I think the way they designed this is fairly foolproof. As long as you have good Wi-Fi, you’re good to go!
There are three Glowforge Units to choose from, the Basic which retails at $2495, The Plus which comes in at $3995, and the Pro $5995, the unit I have been testing that retails at. Thankfully, Glowforge has offered a discount code to my readers- providing $500 dollars off the Pro, $250 off the Plus and $100 off the Basic. To recieve this offer, head to Glowforge.com/toolgirlsgarage. With the holidays quickly approaching, there is really no better time to look into a Glowforge of your own.
What I’ve Made
Glowforge Review- One Month
I have a slew of plans on how to incorporate the Glowforge into upcoming projects, but I have managed to get a bunch under my belt already too. What I love about this project is the potential to add serious detail to an otherwise boring or simple project. That alone will be a huge deal for me!
Engravings
Some detailed engravings in wood that allow multiple depths and incredible clarity.
Epoxy Filling
Using the engrave settings, you can easily combine the ever common medium epoxy to make truly elevated and detailed pieces.
Handwritten Wood Signs
One of my favorite things? The trace feature! It’s truly incredible to be able to take a handwritten note or photo and trace it into your Glowforge. This allows you to then engrave or cut your materials
Layered Wood Signs
One of the things I have really practiced and done a lot of work on Is layering detailed backgrounds on top of a base, then adding words or shapes to create 3-D wall art. To be honest, this has really started as more practice for some really interesting ideas I have about layering woods for details on furniture and the like. These things are popular with everyone, but they also give you a way to really perfect the process and learn what works and what doesn’t!
Other Woodworking Projects
One fun thing I have made that is a bit different is a tie rack for my son. I used my Glowforge to cut letters, but to also cut an holes into Walnut for dowels to be attached to the backer. This was a great learning experience as I take on more projects.
I have a slew of other materials to start creating with too, acrylic, leather and various other woods are waiting for the right project. Not to mention things like fabric, paper, and even food! That is one of the most exceptional aspects of the Glowforge, you really are only limited by what you can dream up.
My Thoughts
Glowforge Review- One Month
Scrolling through photos on Instagram and social media truly don’t give the credit to the capabilities of the machine that it deserves, or just how easy it is to operate. I mean, we see and hear a lot of that and kinda wonder what the reality is. They claim that you can go from in the box to cutting in 30 minutes was honestly a generous timeline. It is incredibly user-friendly and all-around a total winner.
I see a huge amount of potential for users looking for ways to person to drastically improve productivity in their businesses or hobbies. I love working with a scroll saw, but there is no doubt in my mind that this is not only easier but exceptionally quicker than cutting images by hand. As well, you are able to really mass produce popular designs, which can be a huge help for maximizing time. Is it an investment? Sure, but depending on your experience, there is almost no learning curve compared to a CNC and honestly it is so easy to operate it blew my mind.
So, what do yall think of the Glowforge? If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below! Also, make sure to check out my Instagram for day to day projects as well as Glowforge’s Instagram for a slew of insight and inspiration!
On the glowforge Pro, how thick of say oak or walnut can it cut in ONE pass?
I would say maybe 1/16 of an inch on Full Power. Even when doing thin pieces though, I usually use a lower power and do multiple passes. I think its usually worth for the best finish edge! I always have good luck researching settings on the Glowforge forum too!